Darren O'Dea has signed a short-term deal with Dundee which will see him return to Scotland until the end of the season.

The Republic of Ireland international will reunite with former Celtic team-mate Paul Hartley at Dens Park as they bid to reach the top six.

After a short spell at Blackpool last season, the 28-year-old enjoyed a spell with Indian side Mumbai City.

O'Dea started his career at Celtic Park, winning two SPL titles as well as one Scottish Cup and League Cup during his time in Glasgow.

O'Dea said: "If you look at my CV, I have been abroad for the last number of years and I felt that I wanted to come home. Scotland is my home now, Glasgow, my wife and daughter are here.

"When the manager rang me it was an easy decision. He rang me a couple of days ago and here we are.

"I had interest in England and abroad, there are so many variable and it was the first phone call had where I felt 'I really fancy it, I really do'. There was no real thinking to it and my wife and daughter are delighted."

Dundee were on the hunt for defensive reinforcements following James McPake's injury during their derby win over city rivals United.

McPake suffered a dislocated knee after a challenge with John Rankin during the first half of the match.

Manager Hartley, who confirmed the centre-back will be out for the rest of the season, is delighted to capture O'Dea.

Hartley said: "He is somebody I know well. He fits the bill for us. He is at the right age. He has good experience, a good leader in the same mould as McPake.

"He has a fantastic attitude, played for some really good clubs and we are delighted."